The program encourages putting away the devices, and getting back to old-fashioned fun with family and friends.

It's unplugged month in Needham. None of the events on the calendar include the use of electronics.

There are more old-fashioned suggestions, like marshmallow roasts and board games.

And for one whole day, the school district sanctioned no homework or sports.

"For adults there's no meetings, school meetings, or town meetings So it's a wonderful day. It's what I call 'nothingness.' Go home, have dinner, chat and linger," said Jon Mattleman, Needham's director of youth services.

Many students and parents liked the idea.

"I think it's a nice opportunity for families to connect with each other and have some quiet time," said one parent.

But not everyone agreed, even if the homework and sports moratorium was for one day.

"I think the kids have enough free time. Sports keeps them structured, homework keeps them structured. With all the half-days, no school, the real world isn't run like this," said the parent of a high school junior.

There's no question that unplugged months are not about the real world. Rather, they're an exercise in simplicity and person-to-person interaction. How hard could it be to not text for one day? That's on the calendar. too.

"Parents have a good excuse to say to kids they can't text that day. If you think of it we are in front of the screen for eight to 10 hours a day. Don't you think it makes sense to step back?" said Mattleman.

Some parents thought it would be tough for everyone to stop texting but great if it worked. And although none of the calendar events are mandatory, another parent thought no texting should be instituted once a week.

But students were anxious about it.

"I don't think I can do that. It's how I communicate with everyone," said one high school student.

A number of towns have unplugged months including Newton, Falmouth and Belmont and Northborough.

The goal is to remind the communities there's more to life than what is on the other side of a plug.